subsists
|sub-sists|
/səbˈsɪst/
(subsist)
maintain existence
Etymology
'subsist' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'subsistere', where 'sub-' meant 'under' and 'sistere' meant 'to stand (cause to stand)'.
'subsist' changed from Medieval/Latin 'subsistere' through Middle French/Medieval Latin usage into Middle English forms and eventually became the modern English verb 'subsist'.
Initially, it meant 'to stand firmly' or 'to stand up under', but over time it evolved into meanings such as 'to remain in existence' and 'to survive'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to continue to exist; to remain in being.
Only a few traditions subsists in the isolated village.
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Verb 2
to maintain life or existence, especially at a minimal level; to survive (often used with 'on').
He subsists on a small pension and occasional freelance work.
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Last updated: 2025/12/28 11:43